Abstinence-based treatment of comorbid eating disorders and ultra-processed food addiction
While not officially recognized as a clinical diagnosis, ultra-processed food addiction (UPFA) is an increasingly observed phenomenon that frequently co-occurs with eating disorders (EDs). Yet, treatment remains both understudied and controversial. Many challenges exist when treating patients with c...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Frontiers Media S.A.
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Frontiers in Psychiatry |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1586490/full |
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| Summary: | While not officially recognized as a clinical diagnosis, ultra-processed food addiction (UPFA) is an increasingly observed phenomenon that frequently co-occurs with eating disorders (EDs). Yet, treatment remains both understudied and controversial. Many challenges exist when treating patients with comorbid UPFA/ED, particularly in the context of the polarizing debate between abstinence-based and moderation-based approaches to nutrition intervention. We present three vignettes illustrating diverse trajectories of recovery when an abstinence-based approach is explored by a patient presenting with ED symptoms. Ultimately, some patients will recover with abstinence, while others may be harmed and fare better with a moderation-based approach. This dichotomy appears difficult for many patients and clinicians to navigate, particularly since integrative middle-ground approaches remain less characterized. Patients deserve individualized treatment plans from open-minded, experienced clinicians who can comprehensively assess genetic vulnerability; upbringing; and current neurobiological, psychological, and social/cultural presentation. We argue for a nuanced, multidisciplinary approach that may combine elements of both abstinence and moderation, tailored to the patient’s specific needs, emphasizing the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration. More research is needed to develop evidence-based, patient-centered treatment options for UPFA in the context of other food- and body-related pathology. |
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| ISSN: | 1664-0640 |